A transnational criminal network that allegedly smuggled over 1 000 migrants from Vietnam into the United Kingdom has been taken down by Belgian, French and UK authorities, with the support of Eurojust and Europol. During an action day in the early morning of 30 March, 16 suspects were arrested in France and 3 in the United Kingdom.
During the investigation, authorities discovered that the criminal network generated illicit profits of more than EUR 1.6 million through its migrant smuggling operation. Migrants were transported in lorries travelling from ports in northern France to the United Kingdom. In some cases, small boats were used to cross the English Channel. Migrants were asked to pay up to EUR 50 000 to reach their destination.
The criminal network organised more than 200 transports from France to the United Kingdom, smuggling over 1 000 migrants and generating an estimated turnover of EUR 50 million. Financial investigations revealed that the network’s illicit profits totalled around EUR 1.6 million. As many migrants could only pay part of the fee, they arrived in the United Kingdom with significant debts. This made them vulnerable to sexual and labour exploitation to repay their smuggling fees.
To coordinate international cooperation during the investigation and the action day, a joint investigation team (JIT) between Belgian, French and UK authorities was set up by Eurojust. The JIT enabled fast, effective and efficient collaboration, as well as the smooth exchange of information and evidence. It also facilitated an action day in France and the United Kingdom.
The action day took place early in the morning on 30 March. Authorities arrested suspects from different levels in the network, such as individuals responsible for accommodation, transport and financial coordination. The actions resulted in the arrests of 19 suspects – 16 in France and 3 in the United Kingdom. During searches in France, more than 40 irregular migrants were discovered. Authorities seized one apartment, nine cars, cash, identity and travel documents, and electronic devices. Two bank accounts were frozen.
The actions were carried out by the following authorities:
- Belgium: Investigating judge of the Court of first instance of West Flanders; Federal Public Prosecution Office; Federal Judicial Police of West Flanders
- France: Investigative Judge and Public Prosecution Office of the Court of Bobigny; Central Office Against Migrant Smuggling Roissy (OLTIM)
- United Kingdom: Crown Prosecution Service; National Crime Agency
Eurojust is an agency of the European Union